"She probably just peaked a little bit late so there's nice improvement in her," he said.

First-up Australia Stakes winner Malaguerra, who defeated Black Heart Bart at Moonee Valley last month, was the $3.80 second elect, but after racing in second position weakened in the run home to finish sixth.

Jockey Ben Melham said the draw and the way the race was run worked against the gelding.

"He's better suited where he can travel up solidly which then gives him some confidence to let go and finish off," Melham said.